The countdown has officially begun as the city of Ibadan braces itself for a historic moment – the coronation of Senator Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Organisers have unveiled a comprehensive eight-day timeline of events that reflects the spiritual depth, cultural richness, and scholarly significance of Ibadan’s traditional heritage.
The programme, a copy obtained by our correspondent, stretches from Monday, September 22 to Saturday, October 4, 2025, blending religion, academia, art, and festivity.
PUNCH Online in August reported that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, approved Ladoja’s nomination.
Makinde, who announced this during his visit to the Olubadan designate at his Bodija residence in Ibadan, fixed Friday, September 26, 2025, for the coronation ceremony, a day after Ladoja’s 81st birthday.
Ladoja emerged the Olubadan designate after the death of his predecessor, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on July 7.
Here is Day-by-Day Timeline of Events
Day One – Monday, Sept 22, 2025
The celebrations begin with a special inter-religious prayer session at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, at noon. Later in the day, the cultural spotlight shines on the command performance of ARUSA, a stage play dramatising the lineage and legacy of Ibadan kingship, scheduled for 3:00 p.m. at the Apex Event Center, Agodi.
Day Two – Tuesday, Sept 23, 2025
The city’s heartbeat will echo through music, dance, and artistry during a special coronation cultural fiesta at the Olubadan Stadium, Iyaganku, starting at 11:00 a.m.
Day Three – Wednesday, Sept 24, 2025
Scholarship meets tradition with the First Coronation Lecture, to be delivered by renowned historian Prof. Toyin Falola at the International Conference Centre (ICC), University of Ibadan, at 11:00 a.m. This lecture is expected to contextualise the significance of the Olubadan throne within Yoruba and African history.
Day Four – Thursday, Sept 25, 2025 (Kabiyesi’s Birthday)
Marking the monarch’s birthday, the day begins with a special birthday Islamic prayer session at the Olubadan House, Oke Aremo, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a mega praise and worship concert at 2:00 p.m. – a celebration of faith and festivity.
Day Five – Friday, Sept 26, 2025 (Coronation Day)
The centrepiece of the celebrations unfolds at Mapo Hall, where Senator Ladoja will officially be crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland at 9:00 a.m. The historic ceremony will draw dignitaries, traditional rulers, and political leaders from across Nigeria and beyond. A grand reception follows at the historic Liberty Stadium at 3:00 p.m., promising pageantry and cultural splendor.
Day Six – Sunday, Sept 28, 2025
The celebrations take on a Thanksgiving tone, beginning with a Christian Thanksgiving service at The Cathedral Church of The Ascension, New Bodija, Ibadan, at 9:00 a.m., followed by a civic reception at Ibadan Civic Centre at 11:00 a.m.
Day Seven – Friday, Oct 3, 2025
A special Jumat service at the Central Mosque, Oja’ba, will bring the Muslim community together in thanksgiving prayers for the new Olubadan at 12:00 noon.
Day Eight – Saturday, Oct 4, 2025
The celebrations conclude with a traditional thanksgiving Isese ceremony at Osemeji, Oja’ba, at 11:00 a.m., paying homage to Ibadan’s deep-rooted customs and ancestral heritage.
The coronation of Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja is not just a ceremonial enthronement but a historic milestone in the cultural and political life of Ibadan. Known for his statesmanship and long-standing influence in Nigerian politics, Ladoja’s ascension to the throne has been described as a fusion of modern leadership and ancient tradition.
According to the release, security has been intensified across the city as Ibadan prepares to host thousands of visitors, including traditional rulers, politicians, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts.
Hoteliers, transport operators, and traders are already reporting a surge in activity as the coronation draws near.
